Cajurichi Wastewater Treatment Plant, Chihuahua, Mexico

Cajurichi wastewater treatment plant is located in the town of Cajurichi, within the municipality of Ocampo, in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. The plant serves a small population of 456 residents, reflecting the rural character of the area. It is situated inland, more than 10 km from the coast, but within 50 km of the Pacific coastline. The plant operates with secondary treatment, which is the standard biological treatment required under Mexican regulations (NOM-001-SEMARNAT-1996) for municipal wastewater. Although the designed capacity is 129.60 volume units, the current discharge volume is 43.20 volume units, indicating the plant is operating below its capacity. Secondary treatment typically involves biological processes such as activated sludge or trickling filters. The treated effluent is discharged into local watercourses that ultimately drain toward the Pacific Ocean. The region's watershed supports diverse aquatic life and is part of the Sierra Madre Occidental ecosystem. Proper wastewater treatment is essential to protect downstream water quality and the ecological health of rivers and coastal areas in Chihuahua.

The plant discharges into local streams that are part of the Pacific slope watershed in Chihuahua. These water bodies flow through mountainous terrain and eventually reach the Pacific Ocean. The region supports diverse aquatic habitats, including species adapted to seasonal flows. Effective secondary treatment helps prevent nutrient pollution and protects downstream ecosystems from excessive organic loads.